No one knows Detroit better than Candice Simons.
She’s the president and CEO of Brooklyn Outdoor, founder of J’adore Detroit, co-founder of Alley Taco and evolving everyday.
After a decade working in outdoor advertising in Chicago, Candice returned to her Michigan roots in 2013 and founded Brooklyn Outdoor. Since then, the Detroit-based company has become an industry innovator focusing on out of the box outdoor brand opportunities, groundbreaking experiences, and personalized special events hosted at the industrial-chic Eastern Market headquarters.
“Detroit has the right vibe for our brand and culture and I knew it would be the perfect city to start a fresh and energetic advertising company.”
EXP: What are some of your favorite everyday spots in the city?
CS: My office is in Detroit’s historic Eastern Market which is centered around some of my absolute favorite businesses. Germack is my go-to stop for coffee and I’m obsessed with the Turmeric Chai latte – just the right amount of spicy and creamy! Our Brooklyn Outdoor team also loves to order Supino’s Pizza for lunch. I always go for the classic pepperoni or if the fresh mozzarella with sausage, goat cheese, roma tomato, and fennel is on the seasonal menu, order that – it’s amazing! I’m also partial to Alley Taco, — the best tacos in town!
EXP: What does a fun night out on the town look like?
I love the live music at Café d’Mongo’s. If you go, try a Detroit Brown, the house specialty and say hello to the owner Larry Mongo! Selden Standard is always a good idea and an amazing place to bring out of town guests. My most recent favorite dinner spot is Lady of the House. I’m loving the girl power my long-time friend Chef Kate Williams is bringing to the Detroit food landscape.
EXP: What can’t you live without?
I launched J’adore Detroit to share the people, places, and things I adore in the city. Right now, Orleans + Winder is my go-to clothing store for unique pieces that are gorgeous and super versatile—functioning seamlessly from day to a night out. At the moment, I’m loving my O+W sunnies and my Chanel wallet!
